Ontario salt shortage puts pressure on winter road maintenance in Sarnia

Harsh winter conditions and high demand are forcing municipalities to carefully manage limited road salt supplies.

Municipalities across Ontario are facing a shortage of road salt as winter continues to bring heavy snow and cold temperatures, forcing cities to carefully manage limited supplies.

Neighbouring communities including London and Kitchener have confirmed they are conserving salt and adjusting how it is used. Many are delaying applications, using sand and salt blends, and focusing on major routes and high-traffic areas first.

Much of Ontario’s road salt is supplied by the Goderich salt mine beneath Lake Huron, the largest underground salt mine in the world. The mine is operating seven days a week, around the clock, but demand has risen faster than supply can be delivered. Salt that is normally used over several months has been needed within a short period of time due to repeated storms and prolonged cold.

Environment and Climate Change Canada reports that southwestern Ontario has experienced above-normal snowfall this winter, along with colder-than-average temperatures in December. These conditions have increased the need for frequent de-icing to keep roads and sidewalks safe. In some parts of the province, snowfall records have been broken, further adding to the strain on municipal resources.

Sarnia entered this winter with updated winter maintenance and salt management plans approved in 2024. The city maintains more than 900 kilometres of roadways and 168 kilometres of sidewalks using a combination of city staff and contractors. On average, Sarnia uses about 2,100 tonnes of pre-treated salt each winter, with around 2,300 tonnes used last season. The city’s winter maintenance budget is approximately $1.1 million.

Pre-treated salt is designed to stick better to pavement and continue melting ice after application, helping reduce waste and improve effectiveness. Sarnia’s plans also emphasize weather monitoring, route management, and careful application to limit unnecessary use.

Across Ontario, municipalities are focusing on “smart salting” practices, including thorough plowing before salting, applying salt later in storms when it is most effective, and using sand on packed snow. These approaches are becoming more important as supplies tighten.

While salt remains the most reliable tool for preventing icy conditions, its use also raises environmental concerns. Road salt can affect groundwater, vegetation, and local waterways. Sarnia monitors drainage systems and works with local water agencies to limit environmental impacts while maintaining public safety.

Residents may notice some changes in winter maintenance this season, including roads remaining snow-covered for longer periods, more sand on streets and sidewalks, and less early salting during storms. Drivers and pedestrians are encouraged to slow down, increase following distance, and use extra caution during winter conditions.